I bought a pair of 650 mL bottles while passing through Chilliwack. I didn't realize it was a limited edition when I bought it, nor did notice the price tag ($9 per bottle). I had an imported smoked beer years ago at some pub but don't really remember much about it beyond the obvious.

It pours with big creamy beige-light brown head which reduces quickly with little lacing. The body is clear brown (like a watered down cola).

It is quite aromatic with some peat smokiness in there but generally it smells fresh, like an ocean. It tastes much lighter than I thought (considering it is called Big Smoke). I remember the smoked beer I had years had was much more smoke flavour. I'm a little disappointed as I was expecting something more like an Islay Whisky. There is some peat smoke taste in there but I had to concentrate to separate out the flavours. More generally, it tastes more like a smoked meat or canned oysters (and tobacco?), chased with some peat. There is an oily taste also which seems to build up as I drink. No alcohol taste despite the 8%. It is very bold with a strong taste, too much so for me.

Overall, I just don't care for this one. I was expecting something more in line with a scotch. The bottle art (depicting a cityscape with a billow of smoke emanating out) is apt: overall the taste and mouthfeel does remind me of pollution. (1,357 characters)

T: The name "Big Smoke Ale" nailed the taste profile. Intense smoky flavours up front which rapidly transitions to a malty and somewhat nutty finish. I don't normally like smoked beers or schwartzbiers but this is nice. I can appreciate this beer, but, like most of James from Storm's beers, I realize that its not for everyone.

M: Medium viscosity and low carbonation.

O: When I met James from Storm and he found out who I was on beer advocate he said that I was just being "nice" in regards to rating his beers. But, I honestly believe that the specialty beers that he has a hand in making -- such as this one -- are made for the connoisseurs. This beer exceeded all of my expectations after comparing this beer to other smoked beers I have tried. If James from Storm ever reads this, he has to get off his keister and start bottling and/or canning his own beers because his stout and ipa would be welcome additions in the fridges of many. Especially mine! (1,040 characters)